This year marks a peak in the confrontation between the European Commission and tech giants Meta and Apple, with the focus shifting from privacy issues to the core of the upcoming technological engine: artificial intelligence (AI). The European Union aims to prevent major companies from turning social media platforms and operating systems into "walled gardens," monopolizing the future of AI. To achieve this, it is employing two main legal instruments: the Digital Markets Act (DMA) and the Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act).

In February, the European Commission sent shockwaves through the tech world by officially accusing Meta of violating antitrust rules. The case centers around WhatsApp, which dominates the messaging market in Europe. The Commission alleges that Meta is mandating its own assistant, Meta AI, as the sole and exclusive option for users while blocking competitors like OpenAI and Google from offering their smart assistants via the platform. This move highlights the EU's commitment to ensuring competition and innovation in the rapidly evolving AI sector.

The implications of these regulatory actions are significant, as they could reshape the landscape of technology services in Europe and beyond. If successful, the EU's initiatives may lead to more open competition, greater choices for consumers, and a leveling of the playing field in the AI market. As the regulatory framework evolves, it will be crucial to monitor how these actions influence the strategies of Meta, Apple, and other tech companies, potentially altering the direction of AI development and innovation.